AEMET warns of potential for heavy rain on Friday
The Marina Alta, La Safor and the Balearic Islands are likely to be affected by the result of a low pressure trough passing across the eastern Mediterranean seaboard-
Wednesday 20th October 2021 – AEMET with Mike Smith
The state meteorological agency AEMET has activated an ORANGE alert risk warning for the potential for heavy rain and storms this Friday 22nd October throughout the Marina Alta region. This special notice is valid from midnight on Thursday night and will remain active until 8.00pm on Friday evening.
The University of Alicante’s Climatology Laboratory confirmed that, although tomorrow Thursday could see maximum temperatures approach 30°c in several places, it is Friday which will see a dramatic change when a low pressure trough passes across the region, bringing the potential for locally intense downpours with precipitation rates up to 40l/sqm possible in La Safor, the Marina Alta and across the sea in the Balearic Islands.
In addition, it is also expected that maximum temperatures will drop significantly over the weekend, especially the mountains and the interior of the province.
Note: The alert doesn’t mean that these conditions are definitely going to affect us but that the models are showing that there is a good chance that they may do so so it’s best to be prepared.
Prepare for the Worst
- Check guttering and drains. They should be clear of leaves and other debris to allow the rainwater to flow away easily. Take a look at the drains in the street in front of your property. It’s the council’s job to keep them clear but checking them yourself before the arrival of heavy rain can help protect your home.
- Prepare the terrace and garden. Cover up and secure patio furniture. Bring in anything that is likely to be blown around the garden and cause damage.
- Protect valuables. If you live in an area that is liable to flooding, you might want to consider gathering together any valuable or sentimental items and store them in a safe area of the house – not the basement – during the periods of heavy rain. Just in case. Material items can be replaced, memories can’t.
- Avoid driving. During periods of heavy rain, it is best to stay put, wherever you are, and avoid driving in low-lying areas and zones where water is likely to collect. Don’t attempt to cross the river if the water is flowing as it may be deeper and stronger than it appears; it only takes a few centimetres of fast flowing water to dislodge a vehicle. If the heavy rain causes poor visibility whilst driving, stop and wait until it passes.
